How to Make Orthodontics Affordable for Your Family
Monday, August 3, 2020, 6:00 AM | Leave Comment
If your child’s dentist has suggested braces, they’re not alone.
Approximately 45% of children will need orthodontic work to correct functional problems that impair chewing or breathing.
Many more children and teens can benefit from straighter teeth, and more adults than ever are getting orthodontics too.
However, those braces and trays can take a big bite out of your family’s finances.
Whether it’s your child, teen or yourself that needs braces, here are four ways to make orthodontics affordable for your family.
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Get Dental Insurance
It can be difficult to find a dental insurance policy that coves orthodontics for adults, but nearly all plans cover it for minor children. If you don’t get dental insurance through your job, look for a plan on the private market or from the government’s healthcare marketplace. Low income families may be able to benefit from dental coverage under Medicaid or CHIP.
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Use Your Health Savings Account
If you don’t have insurance coverage for orthodontic work, setting up a health savings account is a great way to finance braces for your child or yourself. Contributions are pre-tax and come directly out of your paycheck, so you can get more money back from Uncle Same at tax refund time.
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Seek Out More Affordable Alternatives
Traditional metal braces aren’t the only way to straighten teeth anymore. If you get your child to an orthodontist at a young age, the Myobrace system can prevent the need for braces or aligners later on or reduce the amount of time your child needs to spend in them. For patients with mild cases, the Inman Aligner can straighten teeth quickly for less than half the cost of regular braces. Invisalign also offers a budget-friendly express option for patients who only need a few trays.
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Work Out a Payment Plan
Most orthodontists want their patients to get the care they need and are more than happy to work out a payment plan so you can spread the cost out over several months. You can also use a third-party financing company like Care Credit to pay for orthodontic treatment over time, but remember to compare interest rates and look for the best deal.
Are you thinking of skipping orthodontic care for your child because of the cost? Think again. Misaligned teeth can not only cause pain and dental decay but also set your child back socially. Although orthodontics can be expensive, the cost of crooked teeth can be much higher in the long run.
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Meghan Belnap is a freelance writer who enjoys spending time with her family. She also enjoys being in the outdoors and exploring new opportunities whenever they arise. Meghan also enjoys researching new topics that help to expand her horizons. You can often find her buried in a good book or out looking for an adventure. You can connect with her on Facebook and Twitter.
